Challenges and Prospects of Work-Integrated Learning in Hospitality Training and Education in Botswana: A Case of Botho University’s Dual Learning Model

Abstract

The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the Dual Learning (DL) program, an innovative work-based learning approach adopted by Botho University’s Faculty of Hospitality and Sustainable Tourism. The model ensures that students spend half of their study period at work while the other half is spent in class. Being a pioneer programme in the country, there is limited information regarding the effectiveness of this work-integrated learning approach, particularly in Botswana’s context. Data was collected through eight in-depth interviews with representatives of partner hotels where the students are attached and four focus group panels with students from different cohorts that are undergoing the DL program. The study revealed that the dual study program has faced several teething challenges, including a lack of preparedness among students and hotel staff, undefined expectations, burnout among students and unforeseen costs for both students and the industry. It was however evident that the envisaged benefits of this initiative outweigh the challenges in the mid to long term. There is therefore need for the key players (universities, students and industry) to work on the issues identified in order to make this program a success in Botswana.

Keywords

• work-integrated learning
• graduate competitiveness
• experiential learning
• student and industry perspectives